Types Of Contact Lenses

If you struggle with a refractive error like nearsightedness or astigmatism, prescription glasses can make life much easier in many ways. However, glasses also add their own annoyances, including getting lost, breaking, or constant smudges. Contact lenses are a convenient way to enjoy life without glasses, and they come in several types. 

What are Contact Lenses?

Contact lenses are clear corrective lenses that are placed over your cornea, the clear dome at the front of your eye. These lenses float on a layer of tears, preventing them from irritating your eye, and most people do not even notice they are wearing them. Some of these lenses are intended to be replaced with a new pair every day, while others can be worn for longer periods. Only a consultation can determine the best type of lens for your needs. 

Types of Contact Lenses

You may already know that some contact lenses are replaced with a new pair each day, while others are cleaned each day and used again. You have many contact lens options, and each has benefits and drawbacks. 

Rigid Gas-Permeable (RGP)

These semi-flexible plastic lenses allow oxygen to pass through to the surface of your eye. They are long-lasting and can correct almost any type of refractive error, and they can be used as bifocals. Their more rigid texture means they can move around more easily and are more likely to get debris underneath the lens. 

Extended-Wear

These lenses are intended to be worn for an extended period. Some are FDA-approved for wearing up to 30 days. They may be soft or RGP lenses, depending on your needs. These lenses may not correct all vision problems, and there may be a higher risk of side effects when wearing contacts for an extended time. 

Extended-Wear Disposable

These soft lenses are usually worn for a few days to a week or two and then disposed of. They are convenient, require minimal maintenance, and most people find them very comfortable. However, your vision correction may not be as sharp, and these lenses cannot treat as many types of vision concerns. 

Planned Replacement

These soft lenses are worn daily for a prescribed time, ranging from biweekly to quarterly, before being replaced. They are easy to clean and convenient in many ways, but they cannot correct all refractive errors and may not provide the same level of correction. Most people find them comfortable and easy to wear. 

Daily Wear Disposable

These soft lenses are worn daily and then discarded at the end of the day or wear time.  There is no cleaning solution required because a fresh lens is inserted to each eye every day.  These are convenient and are best for people who have allergies, wear lenses infrequently or are vulnerable to infections of the cornea.  They cannot correct all refractive errors and may not provided the same level of correction.  Most people find them comfortable and easy to wear.  

Am I a Good Candidate for Contact Lenses?

Contact lenses have many uses. They can even be used to correct abnormally shaped corneas. Only a consultation and eye exam can determine the best type of vision correction for you. Your surgeon will consider factors such as your eye health, prescription, and lifestyle. The right contact lens type will provide your desired level of vision correction while fitting into your busy life. 

Take the Next Step

If you’d like to learn more about contact lenses, schedule a consultation with our Heart of Texas Eye Care team, serving Dripping Springs, Austin, Kyle, Bee Cave, Marble Falls, and other surrounding areas. Contact us at (512) 213-2220 today!

*Individual results may vary